On Thursday, Dec. 11, Apple retail stores around the world will be hosting one free hour of coding workshops to support the second annual Hour of Code.

The workshops at Apple retail stores “will offer an introduction to computer science, designed to demystify code and show that anyone can learn the basics of programming, coinciding with Computer Science Education Week, an annual program dedicated to inspiring K-12 students to take interest in computer science,” according to a press release.

The Hour of Code campaign, the release said, “aims to reach 100 million students by the end of 2014, marking a significant milestone in removing the veil of mystery that surrounds computer science and breaking stereotypes that steer girls and minorities away from the field.”

“We’re thrilled to have Apple on board again this year, encouraging students around the world to explore the wonders of building technology,” said Hadi Partovi, co-founder of Code.org. “The Hour of Code, we hope, will continue to spark a creative fire that students might otherwise never discover.”

Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Internet Software and Services said the company is “proud to be part of making computer science accessible to students of all ages around the world.”

“Education is part of Apple’s DNA and we believe this is a great way to inspire kids to discover technology,” he said.

As a part of Computer Science Education Week, the release said Apple “will also host developers and engineers for special events and discussions in select cities around the world.”

To sign up for an Hour of Code workshop at your local Apple retail store, visit Apple.com.

Article by Kassondra Granata, Education World Contributor